Set in the foothills of the Himalayas overlooking the Indian sacred town of Rishikesh (the birthplace of Ganges), is Ananda, an authentic destination spa. Well-placed in the calm of Himalayas at about 3,000 feet, Ananda is truly one of the 'best spots to reboot your life', as confirmed by the digital magazine, Violet Grey.
Built around the Viceregal Palace estate of Maharaja Tehri Garhwal, this exotic spa destination – which is part of C&C Alpha Group's Shanti Hospitality Group – endeavours to provide an array of treatments, founded on Yoga, Vedanta and Ayurveda. Tucked behind the gilded gates of the actual palace, Ananda was inaugurated in 2000 and has been casting a magic spell on each of its visitors since that time. Standing tall in colonial grandeur, the spa resort is also known for being the spiritual pathway to the ultimate communion of body and soul.
Talking about such a transcendental experience, international celebrity Oprah Winfrey said, “Going to Ananda is more like a pilgrimage than a visit, with every moment designed to cultivate presence. Whether you're doing an early-morning trek up the forested mountainside (with graceful Sal forest around it) or taking part in the daily guided group meditations, being fully present is the main goal.”
Having hosted celebrities including Prince Charles, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie amongst others, the General Manager, Nikhil Kapur says, “Here everyone is the same”. Upon their arrival, the guests are given their praying beads and a white kurta-pajama outfit, which according to Ananda's philosophy, is a way of achieving harmony within.
An ardent believer in the unique individuality of a person, the Himalayan resort offers programmes and treatments that strictly cater to individual needs and requirements as assessed through personal consultation by Ananda's Ayurveda and wellness consultants. Most guests visit to be a part of the Ananda experience often take advantage of their seven to fourteen day wellness packages which include a visit to the physician who identifies the dosha (body type), and then recommends a suitable regime for the following days.
A lovely retreat to all your senses, Ananda, part of C&C Alpha Group's hospitality business is certainly one such destination where you can introspect, rest, de-stress and recalibrate, all at one place.
Martin Wynn
